As you use your Mac, there will be situations when you encounter all kinds of malware and programs that will attack your data and even steal it. The Raccoon infostealer is one of those programs, called “infostealer” malware. The idea is that it will enter your browser and it will steal a variety of information stored there.
When was the Raccoon infostealer discovered?
Before learning how to deal with it, we need to know more about this malware and why it exists. Simply put, it was detected in 2019 and it’s sold very often on the dark web in the form of malware as a service. Usually, it comes with a monthly fee as well, and attackers buy it to access all kinds of important resources on regular user’s devices.
It will target Windows and Mac systems, and it tries to capture info like crypto wallet data, passwords, usernames, cookies, history, passwords saved in the browser, but also credit card info and so on. If you store any of this data in your browser, chances are that it can be stolen by the Raccoon infostealer. Addressing the issue as fast as possible and figuring out how to manage the situation is of the utmost priority here.
How does it work?
The Raccoon infostealer malware is injecting the browser with maleficent code in order to hack the processes and create new ones that help steal data from cache files and stored data in general. Once the data gets stolen, it’s sent back to the server.
Another important aspect is that it targets the SQLite database in an effort to steal important, private information as mentioned earlier. The Raccoon infostealer encrypts all data stolen, but it uses a very simple encryption method. After the data gets stolen, hackers use it in order to impersonate the person they stole data from. And either they will use the credit card/bank info to their gain, or they might even sell it to third parties.
Use a Mac cleanup tool to identify and remove the Raccoon infostealer
If you see your Mac not behaving in an ordinary manner, chances are that you might be infected with the Raccoon infostealer. Usually, signs like massive resource consumption, random ads and pop ups appearing on the device, those show that you could be infected with malware. The role of a Mac cleanup tool is to identify and remove any signs of malware. And since you can run the app as many times as you want, it will bring a great experience and provide a very good value.
Is it a good idea to keep information within your browser?
As you can see, the Raccoon infostealer exists, and it’s not the only tool in this vein. There are many others that will steal your data, and which can be extremely problematic. That’s why it’s important to ensure you always avoid hosting crucial information within your browser. Plus, you need to learn more about ways to not get infected with potential malware, which we will teach you how to do below.
Protecting yourself against the Raccoon infostealer: tips and tricks!
These infostealers need data hosted within a database file in order to access and steal it, and that’s what you want to focus on. The most important thing that you can do in a situation like this is to:
- Avoid clicking on any links without knowing where they lead. The same thing is valid when it comes to links sent by random people. If you’re not sure that a link is safe, then you should always avoid it.
- A similar thing is valid when it comes to getting new software or browser extensions. These should always come from legit sources. Because if that’s not the case, you could install malware on your device without even knowing.
- If you see that Mac OS is warning you the app could potentially be dangerous, don’t ignore that. Instead, make sure that whatever you install comes from a verified developer. And if there are warnings, maybe you don’t want to open any app!
- Keep your Mac OS up to date. But don’t use any random update pop ups to install updates. Go to the System Preferences and check for updates from there.
It’s very difficult to protect yourself from infostealers, especially in today’s fast paced world. However, adequate online etiquette, learning how malware works and installing a Mac cleanup tool can help quite a lot. It’s always important to avoid any rush and check any notification or pop up that appears. A lot of these aren’t real, they are just masking various malware. Don’t click on random links, avoid installing any apps that you don’t know, and always focus on staying safe online. Following these guidelines and tips will certainly help you stay safe in the online world!